jiu1么幺
Jyutpingjiu1
Yaleyīu
Definition
One, especially on dice, dominoes, or playing cards; also meaning youngest or tiny.
- the number one; ace on dice, dominoes, or cards
- youngest in family ranking; tiny
colloquialfamilynumbers
How it's used
Refers specifically to the youngest child in a family or the smallest unit in games like dice or mahjong. It carries a sense of endearment when used for children, often implying they are the baby of the family. In gambling contexts, it is the standard term for the one-dot side of a die.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin interrogative particle 麼, which is not used in Cantonese. In Cantonese, the character 么 is strictly reserved for the meanings of youngest or smallest unit.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
